In situ reprogramming of dendritic cells for immunomodulation of CNS-specific Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (B05)

• Subject Area: Immunology
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 490846870

Our previous data successfully showed that targeting iDCs with liposomally complexed m1Ψ-modified mRNA coding for disease associated antigens leads to the induction of antigen-specific Treg cells. We aim to decipher the underlying mechanism. First by analysing the spatiotemporal context of iDC:Treg interaction and the subsequent Treg:Teff cell interaction. Secondly, a Treg cell scRNA sequencing analysis will be used to characterize and further modulate the tolerogenic vaccination resulting in a refined phenotype of induced Treg cells. Additionally, the effect of Treg cells on B cells and their ability to secrete autoantibodies will be analysed. Eventually leading to an improved antigen-encoding m1Ψ mRNA-LPX therapy.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 355: Heterogeneity and functional specialization of regulatory T cells in distinct microenvironments
• Applicant Institution: Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Ugur Sahin; Professor Dr. Ari Waisman